Birthday Celebration!

Honestly, our usual NYC dining experience is much more casual, much less elegant.  But this was a special occasion, and we needed something different.

One If by Land, Two if By Sea.  Fine dining in a historic setting.  Drew's dream dinner.
 

So of course we had to go.  And after a few wrong turns traipsing through the West Village, we arrived.

The building was once Aaron Burr's carriage house.  It's dark and romantic and decorated with antiques and/or reproductions.    Multiple fireplaces warm the rooms.  The resident pianist entertains.  Perfect atmosphere for  a special occasion.  (In fact, we witnessed one happy couple become engaged.)

Service was impeccable, of course.  Everyone was friendly and efficient.

It's a price fixe menu, you choose an appetizer, an entree and a dessert. There's an extensive wine list -- I ordered prosecco -- as well as cocktails from the bar.  Drew ordered his usual amaretto Collins. 

Our meal began with a tasting of cured salmon over creme fraiche.   Drew's appetizer was seared scallops served with pork belly, both perfectly cooked.  I opted for a winter salad -- greens in vinaigrette,  slices of blood orange, walnuts and dates.  We both ordered the butter poached lobster -- lobster tail and claw meat served with a medley of vegetables.


Desserts are elegant.  Drew ordered the vanilla creme, a variation on creme brulee served with a variety of fruity toppings.  I ordered profiteroles, pastries served with creams.